Mum, I am ten today, right? blurted out Tom as he burst through the front door, shrugging off his schoolbag.
Well, yes Mum stared at him, puzzled. Why?
What do you mean, why? Toms eyes were wide. Have you really forgotten what you and Dad promised when I turned ten?
Promised? she echoed, brow furrowing. What did we promise?
You said I could have a dog.
No! Mum recoiled like shed seen a ghost. Anything but that! Tom, darling, how about we get you an electric scooter instead? The most expensive one, I swear. But only if you never mention having a dog again.
So thats how it is Toms lower lip trembled with disappointment. You always tell me to keep my word, but you dont keep yours Some parents you are
He stormed off to his room and shut the door with a finality that made the house seem suddenly quieter. He didnt come out until Dad returned from work that evening.
As soon as the front door clicked open, Tom appeared at the top of the stairs. Dad, do you remember what you and Mum
Dad put his hand up before Tom could finish. Your mums already called me. She told me about this dog business. I just dont see why, Tom.
But, Dad, you know how long Ive dreamed about it! Ive read all about dogs, I know how to look after them, I
We know, son, we know. Dad interrupted gently. You fill your head with stories about dogs and you think youre ready. Its not just about wishes, Tom. You do realise pedigree dogs are rather expensive, dont you?
But I dont care about pedigree, Tom shot back. Id be happy with any dog! Even a stray. I read about abandoned dogs online. Theyre so lonely.
No! Dads voice was sharp, his tone final. Why on earth would we want a stray? Theyre all scruffy. Listen, Tom, heres the only deal: Well think about getting a dog, but only if its a young, beautiful pedigree and it absolutely must be a pedigree. Nothing else will do.
Really? Like that? Tom wrinkled his nose.
Yes, like that, Dad said, glancing slyly at Mum and winking so Tom couldnt see. Youll have responsibilities, you know. Training, walks, dog shows. Old dogs cant be taught much. So, if you find a young, beautiful, pedigree stray here in London, well well consider it.
Alright Tom sighed, resignation heavy in his voice. Hed never seen a pedigree stray on the street, but hope was a stubborn thing. Maybe, just maybe
That Sunday, Tom rang his mate Sam. After lunch, they set out through the city on a mission. From Oxford Street to Hyde Park, they scoured every corner. By evening, their feet were aching and not a single stray pedigree dog was in sight. All the lovely dogs about were safely with their owners, on smart leads.
Thats it, Tom groaned, sinking onto a bench. I told you we wouldnt find one.
Lets try the shelter next weekend, Sam suggested. There are pedigree dogs there, Ive read loads about it. We just need to get the address. For now, lets just sit for a bit.
They collapsed onto an empty bench, dreaming of finding the worlds most beautiful canine friend and heading off together to teach it tricks. After a while, they headed home, quiet and hopeful.
Suddenly, Sam tugged Toms sleeve. Tom, look!
Tom followed his gaze and saw a small, muddy-white puppy hobbling along the pavement, wobbling on its unsteady legs.
A mutt, Sam declared, and gave a whistle.
The little puppy perked up and shuffled towards them, tail wagging. But just as it drew near, it stopped, uncertain.
He doesnt trust people, Sam said softly. You can tell someones frightened him.
Tom crouched down, whistled gently, and reached out his hand. The puppy edged closer, nose twitching, and when Tom was right there, it only wagged its dirt-streaked tail, its big eyes full of hope.
Lets go, Tom, Sam said nervously. You want a pedigree, remember? You could call a pedigree dog something fancy. This one well, only a name like Button would suit. Come on. Sam turned and hurried away.
Tom lingered, stroking the puppys ears. He had to admit, he would take this little ragamuffin home if he could. Then, as he started after Sam, a pitiful whimper made him stop dead.
He froze. The puppy yelped again, quietly. Sam looked back, whispered urgently, Tom! Dont look back. The way that puppys looking at you Its like youre his owner and youre leaving him behind. Come on!
But Tom couldnt move. He stood, heart pounding, swallowing hard. As he finally started to go, he felt a gentle tug at his trouser leg. He looked down there were those dark, pleading dog eyes.
And at that moment, Tom scooped the puppy up, hugging its quivering body tightly to his chest. His mind was made up. If Mum and Dad said no, hed pack a bag and leave with the pup. Tonight.
But hearts can change, and so can parents. The next day, when Tom got home from school, Mum and Dad were waiting and there was little Button, freshly washed, snowy white, and wagging her tail, already part of the family.
